HomeMy WebLinkAboutEGD-12-02
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REPORT
ENGINEERING SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Meeting:
Report #:
EGD-12-02
703
File #: G.55.05
Date:
Subject:
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT BUS LOOP PROPOSAL
Recommendations:
It is respectfully recommended that the General Purpose and Administration Committee
recommend to Council the following:
1. THAT Report EGD-12-02 be received;
2. THAT the Oshawa Transit Commission be requested to prepare and submit a
formal Service Agreement to the Director of Engineering Services for review;
3. THAT the Purchasing By-law 94-129 be waived and approval granted to
purchase transit service from the Oshawa Transit Commission for the purpose of
introducing urban transit service in the Bowmanville urban area;
4. THAT a by-law be passed to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute an
agreement on behalf of the Municipality of Clarington with the Oshawa Transit
Commission;
5. THAT the Purchasing By-law 94-129 be waived and approval granted to
purchase two refurbished transit buses;
6. THAT the Capital Budget estimate costs for the purchase of two refurbished
buses, the bus route roadway improvements and the operations budget estimate
costs be financed from the redirected GO Transit capital allocation from the
Region of Durham;
7. THAT the Director of Engineering Services be authorized to take all action
necessary to implement the Bowmanville urban transit service; and
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8.
THAT the by-law attached to Report EGD-12-02 be approved.
Submitted by: ~I -
A.S. Cannella, C.E.T.
Director of Engineering Services
RDS*ASC*ce
27/02/02
Reviewed ~~a {~~
anklin Wu
Chief Administrative Officer
.
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 3
1.0 BACKGROUND
1.1 The Desire for Improved Public Transportation
There have been a number of requests over recent years for a public transit
system in Clarington, which has grown significantly over the past decade.
Bowmanville has a population of approximately 28,000 with Courtice growing to
over 18,000 residents. Although public transportation is seen by some as a
substantial drain on annual operating budgets due to the subsidy amounts
required to keep fares attractive to riders, it would provide many benefits to the
community. Such transportation systems provide both direct and indirect
benefits to a community by providing improved mobility to its residents and
economic benefits to businesses. The concept of a Clarington Public
Transportation System has gained momentum with a growing public interest in
providing improved transportation links with other municipalities within Durham
Region. Building upon the previous Region of Durham Highway 2/401 Corridor
Study, the Region is now proposing the hiring of a consulting firm to support the
on-going efforts of the Regional Transit Task Force to prepare a Transit
Improvement Plan for the Region.
1.2 Clarin9ton Report on Local Governance Dated April 2001
The Governance Report suggests that Clarington should always strive for
efficiency and effectiveness in service delivery. It further suggests that the
Municipality should be innovative in its approach including public/private
partnerships and service collaboration with neighbouring municipalities. In fact,
Section 5 - Service Delivery Improvements of the Governance Report included
the initiative of "Dialogue with the City of Oshawa".
Council has recently expressed a desire to explore transit service for
Bowmanville and Courtice. This initiative will commence with a public interest
survey and a subsequent feasibility study. If feasible, it is the view of the
Municipality that contracting service from an experienced operator such as the
Oshawa Transit Commission would be the most cost effective way to introduce
this service to the citizens of Clarington.
"
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 4
1.3 At a Council meeting of February 26,2001 Council approved the following
resolution:
"THAT staff be authorized to commence discussion with the Oshawa
Transit Commission to investigate the feasibility of introducing
public transit service in the urban section of Bowmanville and
Courtice; and
THAT a public interest survey be conducted and staff report back
on the feasibility investigation."
1.4 Dissolving of the GTSB and Redistribution of Transit Funds
During the fall of 2001, the Province announced it would dissolve the Greater
Toronto Services Board (GTSB) and take back responsibility of GO Transit
operations and a share of the capital expenditures.
1.5 Distribution of Funds from Durham Region
Durham Region, after receiving the $12 million back from the GTSB, voted on
February 13th, 2002 that it would return $8.4 million to the area municipalities for
development or enhancements to local transit systems. Durham retained $3.6
million as a reserve for Durham's contribution to the GO Transit program.
Clarington paid approximately $1.5 million toward the Regional Transit Levy.
There is now $1,058,000 of those funds being diverted back to Clarington.
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REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 5
1.6 Time Table of Events Prior To This Report:
February 26, 2001 - Resolution to investigate transit with Oshawa Transit.
March 2001 - Transit Survey mailed out via Canada Post.
April 1. 2001 - Publication of Clarington Governance Report.
Mav 29, 2002 - Results of transit survey forwarded to Oshawa Transit for review.
September 2001 - Oshawa Transit reviewed transit survey results with Senior
Clarington Staff.
September 2001 - GTSB dissolved and transit funds returned to Region of
Durham.
December 2001 - Preliminary route design and detailed discussions with Oshawa
Transit Commission Staff to provide a Bowmanville transit
service area.
January 22, 2002 - Negotiations determined that the Municipality needed to buy
two refurbished buses.
January 23, 2002 - Meeting with school boards, Oshawa Transit and Engineering
Staff.
January 30, 2002 - ***Preliminary cost estimates provided by the Oshawa Transit
Commission to operate, administer and maintain a transit
service in Bowmanville and review a modified transit route.
February 13. 2002 - Region of Durham announcement that transit funds would
be forwarded to municipalities.
. .,
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 6
February 22, 2002 - Meeting with Oshawa Transit to confirm feasibility based on
cost estimates and ridership expectations based on
previous transit survey.
2.0 COMMENTS
2.1 Existing Transportation System
GO Transit provides a bus service along the Highway No.2 corridor from
Newcastle Village into Oshawa for connections with the GO-Train and Oshawa
Transit. Local service is only provided by Oshawa Transit in a small
economically viable section of Courtice (Town line Road North, east along Nash
Road, past the Courtice Public High School, south on Courtice Road past the
Courtice Community Complex, and then westerly back into Oshawa along
Highway No.2). This extension of Oshawa's existing King Street Route 2 into
Courtice was provided at no cosHo the Municipality of Clarington as it was
implemented using an existing bus and driver. These conditions provided a win-
win situation for both Oshawa Transit and the residents of Courtice. Clarington
Staff consider the level of service and cooperation of Oshawa Transit to have
been an excellent partnership.
2.2 Transit Survey
In accordance with direction given by Council, a transit survey was distributed to
all households in Bowmanville and Courtice, via Canada Post, during the Spring
of 2001, which produced 2,313 responses, with 1,631 from Bowmanville and 682
from Courtice. Details of which are included in the Feasibility Study and Cost
Analysis (Attachment 3). The survey asked for information regarding how often
respondents would use a system and for what purpose. It also asked for
preferences as to hours of operation and days per week. Based on the survey,
there was strong support to introduce transit in Bowmanville as a first priority.
Further expansion of Courtice connections south of Durham Highway NO.2
would be considered in conjunction with development of the Courtice arena
complex and new high schools and further urban expansion.
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REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 7
2.3 Feasibility Study
Transit systems do not make money or break even based on ridership fares. Well
established systems only recover 55% to 60% of operating expenses and operate
at substantial annual deficits. To be considered successful, a transit operations
first year of operation should recover 30% of the operating expenses from
ridership fares.
The transit survey indicated good support for transit and was used by Oshawa
Transit and Senior Staff as the basis to confirm that the introduction of transit in
Bowmanville was feasible. As a result, senior Clarington Staff met with Oshawa
Transit in the spring of 2001 for initial discussions and to work out details of the
arrangement for a possible service purchase. Momentum picked up in December
2001 due to the potential funding to be derived from the return of funds from the
GTSB. The Clarington transit operating budget was developed by using the
estimated costs provided by Oshawa Transit, and have based revenues at 30% of
the total operating expenses. The 30% figure is an industry standard, which
suggests that to be considered successful, a transit operations first year of
operation should see 30% of the operating expenses recovered from ridership
fares. This operating budget was reviewed in consultation with Oshawa Transit
and would appear representative of the first year operations.
The ridership revenue figure of 30% appears feasible for Bowmanville, based on
the transit survey and ridership levels in other jurisdictions with smaller
populations. The proposed transit loop in Bowmanville is expected to record an
operating loss each year, similar to other public transit systems. The purchase of
the refurbished buses and first year's operating costs would be obtained from
transit funds being returned from the Region of Durham. Development charges
may help to recover some roadwork improvements to enhance roadway safety. It
is intended that the proposed transit service will be financed from the redirected
GO Transit funds received from the Region of Durham.
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 8
The Feasibility Review and Cost Analysis is shown in detail as Attachment 3 and
summarized as follows:
PAGES 1 AND 2
PAGE 3
PAGES 3 AND 4
PAGE 4
PAGES 4 AND 5
PAGE 5
PAGE 6
PAGES 6 AND 7
PAGES 8 AND 9
PAGES 9 AND 10
PAGE 10
PAGE 11
PAGE 12
PAGE 13
PAGE 14
SERVICE PROVIDER
TERM OF AGREEMENT
BUS SELECTION PROCESS
VEHICLE RECOMMENDATION, TYPE AND
QUANTITY
ROUTE SELECTION
PROPOSED SERVICE SCHEDULE
FARE STRUCTURES
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
REVENUE ESTIMATES
OTHER AGREEMENTS AND CONSIDERATIONS
LONG TERM SERVICE DELIVERY PLAN
CLARINGTON TRANSIT SURVEY - BOWMANVILLE
CLARINGTON TRANSIT SURVEY - COURTICE
CAPITAL BUDGET ESTIMATE - TABLE "A"
OPERATING BUDGET ESTIMATE - TABLE "B"
2.4 Clarin9ton Transit System Goals
To help establish and operate a transit system, the Municipality requires goals
and a transit philosophy such as the following:
-Objectives-
To provide safe, reliable, efficient and cost-effective public transit service which
responds to the needs of citizens within Clarington and provides connections to
adjacent municipalities and to regional and inter-regional public transit services.
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 9
-Service Goal-
To provide affordable transit services to residents, especially for those who have
no other choice of transportation mode.
-Financial Goal-
To collect fare and other revenue and to allocate resources so that transit services
are provided at the lowest possible cost to users and taxpayers.
2.5 Bowmanville Transit Loop Launch Target Date (September, 2002)
The ideal time to start any new transit system is late August or the start of
September to encompass the use of some high school students who would no
longer be using the yellow school buses as their transportation to and from
school. A summer start date would see lower revenues during the summer
months due to commuters being on vacation and less students travelling, while a
November start date would miss the guaranteed revenue potential of students due
to the "school year" contract for yellow school buses. The program launch date of
September, 2002 is also a key factor in the decision to purchase used refurbished
buses in a short time span of 4 months rather than waiting 18 months for new
buses.
2.6 Oshawa Transit Commission
As per the Council resolution of February 26, 2001, Staff was directed to consult
with Oshawa Transit to investigate the feasibility of a transit loop in Bowmanville
and negotiate terms of a transit service agreement. In so doing, Staff is cognizant
of the necessity and due diligence to ensure that the cost of this service is
comparable to other neighbouring municipalities.
The initial and most ideal concept pursued by Staff, was for Oshawa Transit to
use their existing fleet of buses to provide a transit service within Bowmanville
similar to the Courtice loop arrangement, which required no capital purchase or
long term commitment on the part of the Municipality. On January 22,2002,
Oshawa Transit advised that this concept was not viable and Clarington would
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 10
need to purchase their own buses. The necessity to purchase buses four months
prior to the implementation date of September, 2002, places time constraints on
all stakeholders to make critical decisions in a short period of time.
Staff at the Oshawa Transit Commission have a wealth of expertise in the public
transit field and have been acting as consultants to the Municipality of Clarington
to assist in the development of a Bowmanville transit loop. The transit loop will
not only help local residents, businesses and the school boards, but also
commuters wishing to linkup with the GO Transit Highway 2 Corridor Route with
connections to the GO Train in Oshawa. The Oshawa Transit Commission has
the infrastructure and staff in place to assist with the development, operation,
maintenance and storage of a new transit service within Bowmanville. By utilizing
Oshawa Transit, residents should continue to expect a high level of quality
customer service. Staff at Oshawa Transit have already provided much
groundwork, serving as consultants with a practical working knowledge of how
transit systems operate effectively. Oshawa Transit is receptive to the idea of
creating a transfer privilege agreement which could permit Clarington residents
further transfers onto the Oshawa Transit system for further connections within
Oshawa. Their long term working relationship with GO Transit will also assist
Clarington in obtaining suitable fare integration agreements for bus-to-bus
connections.
Municipal Staff do not have the expertise at this time to establish and operate a
transit system therefore, it is prudent that a partnership arrangement be made
with the Oshawa Transit Commission which has a proven track record of
operating municipal transit with a high customer service component. The three
year arrangement would allow staff to gain valuable experience from Oshawa
Transit and at such time as the agreement expires, there would be the opportunity
for the service provider to be reviewed. As a result, the Purchasing By-law will
need to be waived to allow the Municipality to enter into a servicing agreement
with the Oshawa Transit Commission as well as to ensure timely purchase of the
refurbished buses.
"
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 11
2.7 Proposal From Oshawa Transit
The draft proposal over a three year term is based on annual totals of 8600 hours,
202,000 km, provided over a 6 day service with no Sunday or statutory holiday
service. Schedule of one bus on 60 minute frequencies and reducing to 30
minute frequencies during peak periods by introducing the second bus.
Clarinqton to Provide:
. Two late 80's refurbished 40' diesel coach transit buses;
. Proper insurance coverage and licenses on the municipal vehicles; and
. Maintain all bus stop amenities as required (municipal or private
partnerships).
Oshawa Transit to Provide:
(A) All Operations and Administration Services, including labour, benefits,
administration and overhead providing:
. Fully trained, uniformed transit drivers;
. Supervised service, on-street;
. Schedule and dispatch drivers;
. Payroll administration and accounts payable;
. Revenue collection and distribution (fare box and bus advertising);
. Vehicles stored and maintained in Oshawa;
. Provide 1 or 2 rental buses in the event of mechanical breakdowns at a
fixed hourly rate; and
. Opportunity for transfer agreement privileges from Clarington transit
system to Oshawa transit system.
The costs are based on a rate of $35.00 per hour plus GST calculated on 8600
service hours. The total estimated operating and administration cost is
$321,000.
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 12
(B) All maintenance services for two buses, based on a transit system distance
of 202,00 kilometres annually.
The Oshawa Transit Commission has agreed to charge Clarington the
same prices which they have negotiated with GO Transit for similar
services:
. Storage $10.50 per day;
. Repairs $56.00 per hour( including MTO safety inspections approx 4
hours, 3-4 times per year);
. Parts and fluids, OTC cost plus 10% handling;
. Clean and full service $25.50 per bus per service day;
. Short cleans, special cleans $20.00 per hour plus 15% admin.;
. Fuel at OTe cost plus 8% handling;
. Tires cost plus 10% admin.; and
. Rental of back up buses $65.00 per hour.
Estimated Maintenance Costs. Based on Average Historical Cost of the
Oshawa Fleet
Item Percent Base Amount
Fuel 46% $87,400
Repairs 25% $47,500
Parts 15% $28,500
Cleans/service 10% $19,000
Storage 4% $7,600
Total Estimate 100% $190,000
Total estimated maintenance cost with GST and PST. $214,000.
"
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 13
2.8 Benefits of Collaboration With Oshawa Transit Commission
Staff, after review of a private service agreement in other municipalities and
concluded that prices quoted by Oshawa Transit are competitive to costs
experienced in other municipalities. Although the prices quoted by Oshawa
Transit are marginally higher than those of some private contractors, it provides
Clarington with the following extra services and benefits which have a monetary
value:
. Ability to review fare integration and transfer privileges from the
Clarington system in Bowmanville to the Oshawa Transit system in
Oshawa.
. Experience in dealing with customer complaints and other customer
service matters thereby eliminating the need for the Municipality to
hire staff.
. Assisting staff in the modification or expansion of the transit system
without the additional cost of a consultant.
. Proven working partnership with Courtice loop at no expense to
Clarington.
. Committed to implement, monitor, enhance and expand service as
required.
. Ability to help negotiate agreements with GO Transit.
. Experience to assist Staff in the development of a marketing
strategy.
. Experience to assist Staff in development and acquisition of transit
tickets, passes and printed matter.
. Experience in administering and providing customer service to
resident complaints, inquiries and route inspections.
. Ability to provide one or two rental vehicles in the event of
mechanical problems.
REPORT NO.: EGD.12-02
PAGE 14
2.9 Other Arrangements
School Boards
Meetings with Joel Sloggett, Manager of Transportation Planning with the
Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School
Board, and Roy Wierenga, Manager of Transportation Kawartha Pine Ridge
District School Board, have taken place with municipal staff and staff of Oshawa
Transit. The meetings were productive and there is a firm interest in the
introduction of public transit within Bowmanville, which would permit the boards to
eliminate some yellow school buses for high school students. The primary area of
interest to the school boards is high school students living south of Highway 2 and
west of Regional Road 57. Arrangements are necessary to permit the school
boards to purchase "restricted use" passes for students. The restricted use pass
would provide transportation needs to and from school from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00
p.m., Monday to Friday, for 10 months, for qualified students who are outside of
the 3.2 km walking distance to the high schools.
In Oshawa, a restricted-use student pass costing $38.50 is provided by the
Separate School Board with students having the option of paying an additional
$23.50 to reach the full student pass cost of $62.00. The discount provided to the
School Board is based on guaranteed volume and loyalty programs and is
approximately half of what a student would pay on a per ticket basis of one round
trip per day for 20 days per month. The school boards would need sufficient
notice that the system will be up and running by the start of school in September
so that bussing contracts can be amended for the upcoming school year. The
school boards would advise students affected by any switch from yellow school
buses to a public transit system. Both of the school boards have submitted letters
indicating support of the proposed Public Transportation System and their
willingness to continue discussions and enter into agreements regarding the
purchase of restricted use passes, which are competitive with the costs
associated with the regular yellow school bus contracts currently in place. The
Director of Engineering Services will enter into letters of understanding with both
school boards for the purchase of restricted use passes.
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 15
GO Transit
Municipal Staff and Oshawa Transit have had preliminary discussions with AI
Robinson, Director of Bus, and Ken Armstrong, Planning Officer, of Go Transit to
discuss possible options to provide incentives to commuters looking for transfers
from the Clarington bus system onto the Go bus system. Oshawa Transit will
assist Clarington to negotiate a possible pilot project to implement a bus-to-bus
fare integration agreement with GO Transit, which could provide a reduced cost to
riders using both systems. The Director of Engineering Services will enter into a
letter of understanding with GO Transit.
2.10 Critical Path - Implementation Deadlines
There is still a great deal of work to be done to meet the September, 2002
implementation date due to a number of deadlines which must be met and
agreements to be made with various stakeholders to ensure implementation can
proceed:
March - Council approvals to enter into agreement with Oshawa Transit, School
Boards and GO Transit and to waive the Purchasing By-law.
March - School Board's commitment to the Municipality to purchase a quantity of
student passes as per a three year agreement.
April - Issue Purchase Order for the purchase of two buses and refurbishment in 3
to 4 months.
April - School Boards to establish reduced contracts for Bowmanville routes for
yellow bussing.
April - Design and order tickets, information schedules etc.
July - Marketing materials, web site, ticket sales etc.
"
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 16
Auqust - Install bus stop posts and signs.
Auqust - Promotion and advertising.
Auqust - Installation of bus stop signs information holders and no parking signs.
Auqust - Trial runs at no charge to promote the service.
SEPTEMBER, 2002 - FULL OPERATION.
Post September, 2002 - Monthly on-going service review of ridership numbers
and complaints, concerns etc.
3.0 CONCLUSIONS
3.1 The transit survey indicated good support for transit and was used by Oshawa
Transit and Senior Staff as the basis to confirm that the introduction of transit in
Bowmanville was feasible.
3.2 Although initial discussions between Clarington and Oshawa Transit started in
January 2001, there has been limited time to plan the numerous details for the
Bowmanville system with funding only becoming confirmed February 13, 2002. If
Council wishes the transit initiative to proceed and have the proposed system up
and operational by September, 2002, there are a number of agreements and
quick action required by Staff and others to ensure the system is not delayed until
September 2003.
3.3 Municipal Staff do not have the expertise at this time to establish and operate a
transit system therefore, it is prudent that a partnership arrangement be made
with the Oshawa Transit Commission which has a proven track record of
operating municipal transit with a high customer service component.
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 17
3.4 The introduction of the proposed transit service will not burden residents with any
additional taxes as previously paid taxes are being returned to the municipality
and charges for transit already part of the regional tax levy are expected to be
redirected to the municipality in future years.
3.5 The expenditures which include the Capital Budget estimate for the purchase of
two refurbished buses, the bus route roadway improvements and the operations
budget estimate be financed from the redirected GO Transit capital allocation
from the Region of Durham. The Director of Finance has reviewed, and concurs
with, this financial recommendation.
Attachments:
Attachment 1 - Key Map - Proposed Route
Attachment 2 - Proposed By-law to Enter Into an Agreement with Oshawa Transit
Commission
Attachment 3 - Feasibility Review and Cost Analysis for the Proposed Bowmanville
Transit Loop
Interested parties to be advised of Council's decision:
Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington
Catholic District School Board
Joel Sloggett, Manager of Transportation and Planning
1355 Lansdowne Street West
Peterborough, ON
K9J 7M3
Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
Roy Wierenga, Manager of Transportation
1994 Fisher Drive, P.O. Box 719
Peterborough, ON
K9J 7 A 1
GO Transit
Ken Armstrong, Planning Officer
20 Bay Street, Suite 600
Toronto, ON
M5J 2W3
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
PAGE 18
Oshawa Transit Commission
Bob Goody, General Manager
710 Raleigh Avenue
Oshawa, ON
L 1 H 3T2
CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF CLARINGTON
40 TEMPERANCE STREET, BOWMANVILLE, ONTARIO L 1C 3A6 T (905) 623-3379 F (905) 623-9282
ATTACHMENT NO.: 1
REPORT NO.: EGD.12-Q2
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BUS ROUTE
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Bus Routes
- - Future Loop
-Loop A - 9,420 m
-Loop B - 12,430 m
. :;THL~ 400 m Buffer (WaIkable Dlstancel
(:!8m').. Improvement Location
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ATTACHMENT NO.: 2
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF CLARINGTON
BY-LAW 2002-
Bein9 a by-law to authorize the execution of an
agreement with the Oshawa Transit Commission for
the acquisition, administration, operation,
maintenance, storage, and additional rentals of transit
buses within the Municipality of Clarington.
THE CORPORATION OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF ClARINGTON HEREBY ENACTS
AS FOllOWS:
THAT the Mayor and Clerk are hereby authorized to execute, on behalf of The
Corporation of the Municipality of Clarington and seal with the Corporate Seal, an
agreement between Oshawa Transit Commission and The Corporation of the
Municipality of Clarington, an agreement to the satisfaction of the Director of
Engineering Services.
BY-lAW read a first and second time this 4th day of March, 2002.
BY-lAW read a third time and finally passed this 4th day of March, 2002.
John Mutton, Mayor
Patti L. Barrie, Municipal Clerk
ATTACHMENT NO.: 3
REPORT NO.: EGD-12-02
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
CLARINGTON TRANSIT SYSTEM
BOWMANVILLE LOOP
ESTIMATED COSTS AND PROJECTED REVENUES
SERVICE PROVIDER, LEVEL OF SERVICE AND IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
INTRODUCTION
Transit systems do not make money or break even based on ridership fares. Well
established systems only recover 55% of operating expenses and operate at substantial
annual deficits. To be considered successful, a transit operations first year of operation
should recover 30% of the operating expenses recovered from ridership fares.
CLARINGTON TRANSIT SURVEYS
In accordance with direction given by Council, a transit survey was distributed to all
households in Bowmanville and Courtice, via Canada Post, during the Spring of 2001,
which produced 2,313 responses, with 1,631 from Bowmanville and 682 from Courtice.
The survey asked for information regarding how often respondents would use a system
and for what purpose. It also asked for preferences as to hours of operation and days
per week. Based on the survey, there was strong support to introduce transit in
Bowmanville as a first priority. Further expansion of Courtice connections south of
Durham Highway No.2 would be considered in conjunction with development of the
Courtice arena complex and new high schools.
SERVICE PROVIDER
DIRECTIONS TO STAFF
As per direction of Council, Staff worked with Oshawa Transit to work out a preliminary
transit service agreement. The Governance Report suggests that the Municipality
should be innovative in its approach including public/private partnerships and service
.
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 2 OF 14
collaboration with neighbouring municipalities. The Oshawa Transit Commission and the
Municipality of Clarington already have an existing working relationship with the Courtice
transit loop and Oshawa Transit has expressed a wiliness to help Clarington create a
transit system by providing their expertise during this implementation process.
SERVICE PROVIDER COMPARISON
As noted, Staff was directed to consult with Oshawa Transit and feel that prices quoted
by Oshawa Transit are competitive to costs experienced in Whitby, which is operated by
a private contractor, but provides Clarington with the following extra benefits:
. Experience in dealing with customer complaints and other customer service
matters thereby eliminating the need for the Municipality to hire staff.
. Assisting staff in the modification or expansion of the transit system without the
additional cost of a consultant.
. Proven working partnership with Courtice loop at no expense to Clarington.
. Committed to implement, monitor, enhance and expand service as required.
. Ability to help negotiate agreements with GO Transit.
. Ability to review transfer privileges from the Clarington system in Bowmanville to
the Oshawa Transit system in Oshawa.
. Experience to assist Staff in the development of a marketing strategy.
. Experience to assist Staff in development and acquisition of transit tickets, passes
and printed matter.
. Ability to administer and provide customer service to resident complaints, inquiries
and route inspections.
. Ability to provide one or two rental vehicles in the event of mechanical problems.
. Fare integration and bus to bus transfer agreement/privileges.
.
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 3 OF 14
TERM OF AGREEMENT WITH SERVICE PROVIDER
Due to the hiring of staff and the administration required to establish the system, a three
year contract was felt necessary to implement and evaluate the system. This would
permit a decision to be made after the second year to extend the service contract or
provide ample notice to terminate the contract and seek new proposals to operate the
system. The agreement will require clauses to permit the enhancement or reduction of
service as conditions require.
BUS SELECTION PROCESS
SMALL BUS VS. LARGE COACH BUS
A small bus with capacity of perhaps 25 seats would work for the transportation of
residents between a number of key destination points, but would not have the capacity to
transport high school students to and from school during the peak hours. If a small bus
was utilized, the duplication of service between the public transportation and the yellow
school bus transportation could not be reduced. A small bus typically has high
maintenance costs and wears out faster with a life span of perhaps 10 to 12 years. A 40
foot diesel coach bus has seating capacity of 40 with standing room for another 25 to 30
during peak periods. The larger coach buses have an original life span of 15 t016 years
with refurbishing adding another 5 to 7 years back to the useful life span.
NEW BUS VS. USED REFURBISHED BUS
The ideal system would include the purchase of two new buses at approximately
$500,000.00 each, $1,000,000.00 in total, however there is an 18-month time frame
required between issuance of a tender and construction/delivery of the vehicle. The
purchase of fully accessible buses including kneeling devices, special yellow lighting,
yellow coated hand rails for the visually impaired, special front seating, lower pull cords
and designation signs designed for the visually impaired are major purchases which can
not be made at this time to meet the September, 2002 proposed start up date.
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 4 OF 14
The Municipality of Clarington intends to work closely with the Oshawa Transit
Commission in the future to purchase low floor 40 foot vehicles, to ensure a consistent
level of accessibility between the two systems. The Municipality of Clarington has
submitted an expression of interest to the Ministry of Transportation Inter-Regional
Transit Office requesting consideration for funding during the second phase of the
selection process for the future purchase of low floor buses, but there is competition for
this funding from several other municipalities and established transit authorities. Until
fully accessible buses can be purchased in the future, the needs of the disabled are best
served with the existing Handi-Transit and Community Care programs.
The purchase of two used 40 foot standard coach transit buses, refurbished to Municipal
standards, would be a cost effective option for the introduction of a transit system in
Bowmanville.
VEHICLE RECOMMENDATION, TYPE AND QUANTITY
The purchase of two used 40 foot standard coach transit buses, refurbished to Municipal
standards, is the recommended and only option available to meet the September, 2002
deadline and provide the proposed level of service required to service both the general
public and high school students. One bus would operate at all times during the service
day on a 60 minute schedule with a second bus being introduced during the peak
periods to reduce vehicle spacing to 30 minutes. A third bus would be rented on an
hourly basis during emergency break downs.
SERVICE PLAN DEVELOPMENT
ROUTE SELECTION
The route was developed by Oshawa Transit in consultation with Clarington Staff and
has been modified several times to arrive at the proposal shown as Attachment 1. The
route was also reviewed by the Transportation Managers from both School Boards who
concur that it will serve the needs of the majority of the students in an area where they
would like to discontinue the existing yellow school bussing. The route is shown on
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 5 OF 14
Attachment 1 along with a 400 metre buffer showing the industry standard walking
distance to clearly depict that all the major residential and commercial zones will be
provided with access to transit. The route would provide a transfer point near Division
Street and Church Street which is close to both downtown and connections to the GO
Transit Highway 2 corridor service. In addition to simply marking out a route, all major
pick-up and destination points must be serviced and the route must be able to be
completed within one hour. Although the route is broken into two portions with a transfer
point, the bus would be actually operate an "interline" service, meaning the bus would
operate in a continuous loop throughout Bowmanville.
PROPOSED SERVICE SCHEDULES
The premise is to offer six-day service during the higher demand days from Monday to
Saturday with no service on the low demand days of Sundays or Statutory Holidays.
Expansion to the seven-day service, including Statutory Holidays, could be considered
as the system becomes more established. Service through the day will be at 60-minute
frequencies using one bus along a continuous route. Peak hour headways will be
reduced to 30 minutes by introducing the second bus into the same continuous loop.
This service would require 8,600 operator hours and 202,000 kilometres of operation.
The exact pickup times may need to be adjusted to ensure efficiency, needs of the
School Boards, and timely connections with the GO Transit Bus on the Highway 2
Corridor route with attention to bus-meet train schedules.
Approximate Service Schedule
Bus #1
60 min. service
Bus #2 added
Improving to 30 min. service
Peak Service Hours
Davs
Mon.-fri.
A.M. P.M.
Start finish
6:10-10:10
6:10 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Peak
1 :55 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. Peak
10:45 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.
Sat.
7:25 -10:10
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 6 OF 14
FARE STRUCTURES
The same fare structures are_used by Whitby and Oshawa and any proposed changes
are agreed to by both parties to ensure ongoing uniformity. To provide consistency, the
fare structures in Clarington should be the same as those applied in Oshawa and
Whitby. There are no price increases expected in the near future.
Rider Classification Exact Cash Fare Monthly Pass 10-Ride Card
Adult $2.00 $70.00 $19.00
Student $1.75 $62.00 $16.75
Senior $1.25 $42.00 $11.85
Child $1.25 $42.00 $11.85
GO Connection ('Prices to be determined) n/a
Adult - Any adult without a valid student card.
Student - Anyone with a valid student card (adult must be a full time student).
Senior - Any adult 65 and older with identification.
Child - Walking status up to high school.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
The following financial figures are detailed on Tables A and B appended at the end of
this Feasibility Review and Cost Analysis.
CAPITAL COST ESTIMATES - TABLE "A"
The capital items would include the costs to purchase and refurbish two 40' diesel coach
transit buses including the installation of fare boxes and communications systems.
Dependent upon the quality of vehicle purchased, the life span of the buses would be
approximately 5 to 7 years before repairs and down time would make them too inefficient
to operate without a major refurbishing or retirement of the vehicles. Any depreciation or
vehicle replacement allowances are not considered as part of the operating expenses.
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 7 OF 14
OPERATING COST ESTIMATES - TABLE "B"
Operation and administration of the two-bus system would be based on 8600 service
hours over a six-day service program with no Sunday or Statutory holiday service.
Oshawa Transit will charge Clarington the same hourly maintenance rates, which it
charges to GO Transit for storage, washing and mechanical repairs. The maintenance
estimate is based on an average of Oshawa's fleet but costs will vary depending upon
actual fuel consumption and actual repair parts required.
Vehicle licences and insurance will need to be obtained by the municipality.
A charge of $65.00 per hour for the rental of backup buses during maintenance and
repairs is comparable to other rental agreements such as Whitby has with Trentway-
Wager to provide additional vehicles during maintenance activities.
OTHER OPERATING COSTS
Bus Stop Construction And Maintenance:
Purchase and installation of bus stop signs and Schedule holders.
Concrete pads and or sidewalk stubs with waste receptacles.
Summer and winter maintenance including litter pickup.
(Some of these costs may be offset by the private sector for advertising benches and
shelters)
Marketing Advertising Promotions:
Preparation and distribution of schedules, ticket sales.
Staff Time:
Although Oshawa Transit is providing the vast majority of administration services, there
will still be some staff and administration time required.
"
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 8 OF 14
REVENUE ESTIMATES
Implementation Funding
The expenditures which include the Capital Budget estimate for the purchase of two
refurbished buses, the bus route roadway improvements and the operations budget
estimate be financed from the redirected GO Transit capital allocation from the Region of
Durham.
Revenues From Fare Box
An existing transit system which has operated for a number of years such as Oshawa
Transit, would be expected to recover 55% of its operating expenses from ridership
fares. A new system being introduced for the first time, according to industry standards,
should recover 30% to 35% of its operating expenses from ridership fares during the first
year with gradual increments in subsequent years. If ridership fares are below this
benchmark level, the system should be seriously reviewed as to the level of service
being provided, actual demand and marketing opportunities. As with all transit systems,
the peak hours provide the money generation or breakeven periods while the off peak
hours lower the overall financial performance of the system. Although interest in public
transit appears high, there is no firm way to estimate potential ridership levels in a
community until the system is operational.
Fare box collection is estimated at 30% of the estimated operating costs. The potential
ridership guaranteed by the purchase of restricted passes is approximately 90 students
from the separate school board and 20 students from the public school board for a total
of 110 students. If the $38.50 monthly figure is used over 10 months, it would generate
a guaranteed annual revenue of approximately $40,000. The lack of any large industrial
component along the route or near the other commercial destinations also limits potential
ridership. The number of students who would upgrade to unrestricted passes is
unknown, and the number of students within the walking boundaries but who may
purchase full unrestricted passes is unknown.
'>
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 9 OF 14
Revenues From Advertising Rights
OBIE Media, which has a contract with Oshawa Transit for the right to advertise inside
and outside of transit buses, has indicated its willingness to add the two Clarington
buses, which would provide $6,000.00 per bus per year to offset operating costs to the
Municipality.
Viacom, which provides and maintains advertising style bus shelters, will be requested to
consider altering existing agreements and expanding upon its existing contract to provide
more shelters in high demand areas.
Bench Ads Canada, which provides and maintains advertising style benches, will be
requested to consider altering existing agreements to provide more benches in high
demand areas.
It is important to note that although revenues are obtained from advertising shelter and
bench companies, the capital investment and on-going maintenance provided by those
private firms also benefits the transit system by reducing costs to the Municipality.
OTHER AGREEMENTS
Agreements with local businesses for the temporary layover of the transit buses and
driver comfort station(s).
Ticket/pass sales will presently only to be sold from the Municipal Administrative Centre
during regular business hours. Other locations may be considered in the future may
provide an added benefit of evening or weekend sales.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
. Advertising budget, and administration.
. Web page information.
. Information/complaint inquiries require Oshawa Transit contact and Clarington
contact.
,
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 10 OF 14
. Improved consistent maintenance of all bus stop locations, snow, garbage, pads
and walkways.
. Policy for resolving disputes with residents adjacent to bus stops (loitering, noise,
fumes, littering and vandalism concerns.
. Vehicle insurance and licensing.
. Parking passes for transit users, other parking regulations
PERFORMANCE MONITORING
The first year is vital to the marketability and future growth of any transit system.
Marketing must be used to entice commuters onto the bus and quality service must keep
them using the bus. Customer service must provide the public with information on
scheduling, costs and a place to voice concerns. The system must run on time to ensure
commuters can make other connections and leave their vehicles at home. Monthly
reports from the service provider must indicate the bus usage trends and be used to
determine market demands.
LONG TERM SERVICE DELIVERY PLAN
In addition to current demand trends and service delivery, future demands must be
watched closely to determine the feasibility of new routes to service the growing
community. Integration with a Regional cooperative system will lead to the long-term
success of transit and provide seamless transit through out Durham and into other
sections of the GT A.
"
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 11 OF 14
Results of the BOWMANVILLE survey conducted in spring 2001 are as follows
1. What Is your address? 1631 Responses
2. What is your postal code? _Entire community
3. Percen'tage of households that responded with family members:
Under 15 122.9'%1 16 - 24 114,;10/.1 25 - 49 140.0%150 - 64 119;8%165+ 119.4%1
4. Average cars per household ~
5. Average number of trips per 'VV'eek from responding households ~
6. Transit service useage in Bo\Nft1anvllle if it \NaS provided.
Never I~~%I Oncelvveek I 2~'t4 2-31V1teek 13:;.~% I Daily r5.2% I
248
7. Main purpose ~uld be as a percentage~
School 113% 2121 Work 113.8%.2251 ShoppingI39.8% 6491
Entertainment 125.1 %,y '4091 Appointments 129.60/0 4831
8. Service required.
A) W_kday only 6 am - 11pm .9.5% 155
. :::"y"'S
B) W_kday only 6 am .. 6pm 7.!ilr~ 122
C) Weekday commuter only 6 ani ... gain, 3pm ... 6prn 5.2% 85
D) Weekday + Saturday 6 Bin ... 11 pm 115'fJ% 258
E) Weekday + Saturday 6 am... 6pm ..&.;~% 101
J") Weekly 6al1'l-11pm plus Sunday 10am - 5pm ~O% 555
G) No Transit ';';"'~AO.l_ 3"''''
9. Please list the 3 lYIost: ilnportant locations in Bo'W'nsanville t.hat: bus
service 'WOuld best serve you..
A) West mall 1330/0 5381 B) East mall 131.4% 5121
C) DoVltntoVltnl24..50k 400 ID) Hospital 116~B% 2741
E) Liberty & Concession 114.1 % 230 IF) Waverly & Baselinel9.9% 1611
G) Liberty & BaselineIB.1% 1321
10. Other comments?
I
-,
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 12 OF 14
Results of the COURTICE survey conducted in spring 2001 are as follows
1. What is your address? 682 responses
2. What is your postal code? _Entire community
3. Percentage of households that responded with family members:
Under 15 121l1.8'l\l 18 - 24~919.%"125 - 49 143~%I 50 -64 114:3%1 65+ 1.13.10/.1
4. Average cars per household [jliJ
5. Average number of trips per week from responding households 114;91
6. Transit service usage In Courtlce If It was provided.
Neverl~i\:ri onceJweek~~~1 2.3 tlmes/Vlteek 1~~f~!I,1 DailYI~t~'1
7. Main purpose would be as a percentage.
School 1'i5;7~1b71 Work V'f:z,'t,%f 87 I Shopping 11"&;4% 1121
Entertainment 117.6'KP1201 Appointments! ,'1""4.3%981
8. Service required.
A) Weekday only 6 am - 11pm ;~lJ;8% 60
~".....
B) Weekday only 8 am -8pm ..~ '4;.0%. 27.
C) Weekday commuter only 6 9am, 3pm 6pm ??;:.'{'.::::..c,<......:' ~'
am - - "."6~:'fO
D) Weekday + Saturday 6 am - 11 pm _13.6%.. Jt~
E) Weekday + Saturday 6 am - 6pm ;~9~; ':::~~:~;
F) Weekly 6am -11pm plus Sunday 10am - 5pm "35:0% 239
~y..."JIi:~_"",,~, '~'.,~l~-~',
G) No Transit .'28:.1%:"192
g. Please list the 3 most Important locations in Courtlc. that bus
service would best serve you.
A) Bcwnnanville ClnemasIM.1I121'.6% 1471
B) High school, Nash and Courtlce Road, King And Courtice Road I 1S.9% 1081
C) TO'Wftline & King 110.9%;>741
10. Other comments?
- m_"_____~_... .-0-.'..'
"
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 13 OF 14
Clarington Transit
Bowmanville Bus Loop Proposal
Table "A"
I
D
Capital Budget Estimate
Description I Total Costs
Two 40 ft Diesel Coach Transit Buses refurbished)
Bus Route Roadway Improvements (Signs and Platforms)
TOTAL CAPITAL COSTS
$450,000
$50,000
$500,000
".
,
.
FEASIBILITY REVIEW AND COST ANALYSIS
BOWMANVILLE TRANSIT LOOP
PAGE 14 OF 14
Clarington Transit
Bowmanville Bus Loop Proposal
Table "B"
I Operating Budget Estimate I
0 Description I Costs I
Payroll Salanes & Wages $5,000
Office Supplies $300
Advertising & Promotions $8,000
Pnnting $2,000
Memberships & Subscnptions $1,200
Training & Courses $1,500
Liability Insurance $11,000
TOTAL ADMINISTRATION $29,000
Service Contract: Operations and Administration $321,000
Service Contract: Equipment Rental $20,000
Service Contract: Maintenance $214,700
TOTAL SERVICE CONTRACT $555,700
FLEET REPLACEMENT COSTS $70,000'
CONTINGENCIES $20,000
TOTAL TRANSIT OPERATING EXPENDITURES $674,700
Revenues
Description
Revenues
$162,410
$40,000
$12.000
$214,410
FareslTickets
School Boards
Advertising
TOTAL REVENUES
Summary
Description
Costs/Revenues
TOTAL REVENUES
TOTAL TRANSIT OPERATING EXPENDITURES
NET COSTS
$214,410
$674,700
($460,290)